What is self-defense -- and how can I prove it? Self-defense is a common defense for a person charged with a crime of violence. The defendant admits that he/she did in fact commit the crime, but claims that is was justified by the other person's actions. The core issues in most self-defense cases are: Who was the aggressor? Was the defendant's belief that self-defense was necessary a reasonable one? If so, was the force used by the defendant also reasonable? BACK TO FAQ © 2005. All rights reserved  | Developed by Aridel Technologies